Bruno Guimaraes reveals Mikel Arteta message that convinced him to join Arsenal
Bruno Guimaraes has opened up on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s ambitions for a “dynasty” at the club and his excitement about forming a midfield partnership with Declan Rice.
The Brazil international joined Arsenal from Newcastle United for £75 million earlier this month, signing a four-year contract with the option of another season.
Speaking to Men in Blazers, Guimaraes explained that conversations with Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta convinced him that the Emirates Stadium was the right destination for the next stage of his career.
The 28-year-old said Arteta’s determination to build on last season’s Premier League triumph particularly appealed to him.
“Since the first time I spoke to him, he wants to make a dynasty here at the club,” Guimaraes said.
The midfielder added that Arsenal want to “win everything as possible”, reflecting the increased expectations after Arteta finally delivered the club’s first league championship in 22 years.
Guimaraes also discussed the tactical demands he has encountered since arriving, revealing that Arsenal practise set pieces “almost every day” because of their potential to decide tight matches.
Another major attraction is the opportunity to play alongside Rice after several combative meetings between the pair during Guimaraes’ Newcastle career.
“He has a little bit of everything,” Guimaraes said of Rice. “He’s so good with the ball, but he defends like a lion.”
Guimaraes believes their contrasting qualities could complement each other, while his versatility gives Arteta several options when constructing his midfield.
The Brazilian said he is comfortable operating as a number six or eight, on either side of midfield or as part of a single or double pivot, leaving the final decision to Arteta.
That adaptability could prove particularly valuable across a season in which Arsenal are attempting to defend their Premier League crown while challenging again in Europe.
Guimaraes made an encouraging competitive debut in Arsenal’s 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City, although a leg problem subsequently ruled him out of Friday’s 3-0 league win over Coventry City.
The midfielder also explained why he has retained his trademark number 39 shirt, which originates from the number of the taxi his father drove while supporting the family in Brazil.
For Guimaraes, it remains a reminder of his upbringing and the sacrifices behind his career, providing motivation to remain “hungry for more” as he begins the latest chapter at Arsenal.
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